The SMART SCHOOLS BOND ACT OF 2014 (SSBA) was passed in the 2014-15 Enacted Budget and approved by the voters in a statewide referendum held during the 2014 General Election on Tuesday, November 4, 2014. An additional $5 million of Smart Schools Bond Act funding was appropriated to improve learning and opportunity for students with disabilities enrolled in Chapter 853 schools, Special Act School Districts and 4201 schools by funding capital projects to improve access to the Internet, purchase devices and for investment in certain classroom spaces. Information from the State on the addition of Smart Schools Funding for Special Act School Districts can be found on the New York State Education Website, or by clicking the link below:

Install high-tech security features in school buildings and on school campuses, including but not limited to video surveillance, emergency notification systems, and physical access controls

The Astor School Age Day Treatment has proposed two projects that fall into Categories 2 and 4 above:

2 mobile wireless carts and laptops for student and teacher instructional use

Wireless radio system for improving safety and security

The Smart Schools Bond Act funds will serve to provide teaching and learning technology that supports 21st century standards and an upgrade to our current inter-building communication system.

This initial proposal shall be authorized by the Astor Services for Children & Families Board of Directors, and the Preliminary Smart Schools Investment Plan submitted to the New York State Education Department for initial review and approval.